iCaur (iCAR): an interesting brand from Chery again

In 2026, Chery will introduce a subsidiary brand, iCaur, to the international market, under which it plans to sell electric and hybrid SUVs.

iCaur will become another sub-brand of Chery following several others already introduced: Jaecoo, Exeed, Exlantix, Omoda, Jetour, Tenet.

In China, the brand was first introduced in 2023, known locally as iCAR (without the letter 'U'). In some foreign markets, it is offered under the name Aiqar. Chery has big plans for this young brand: it aims to be available in 100 countries shortly.

Currently, the iCaur lineup includes two compact electric crossovers notable for their angular exterior design. However, a hybrid SUV is on the way, comparable in format and style, if one might say, almost to the Land Rover Defender or the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

iCaur 03

The electric crossover with the index 03 debuted in 2023. It is a compact vehicle with a body length of 4406 mm (comparable to the Haval Jolion or Geely Coolray).

The main feature of the iCaur 03 is its angular exterior design with an unusual vertical optic resembling the Latin letter 'i'. In China, the crossover is available in two versions: rear-wheel drive (one electric motor) and all-wheel drive (two electric motors). The base version is equipped with one electric motor producing 184 hp and a torque of 220 Nm. The maximum speed is 150 km/h.

Battery options are either 50.63 kWh or 65.69 kWh using iron-phosphate elements, providing a range of 401 or 501 km, respectively.

The all-wheel drive version features two electric motors with a combined output of 279 hp and a torque of 385 Nm. Nevertheless, the maximum speed remains at 150 km/h, similar to the rear-wheel drive model.

The battery capacity in this configuration is 69.77 kWh, allowing a range of up to 501 km.

Prices for the iCAR 03 in China start at 110,000 yuan (~ $15,000).

iCaur V23

The company's second model, indexed V23, debuted in 2024. It is an even more compact crossover with a body length of just 4220 mm (comparable to the Kia Soul).

Like its predecessor, the main highlight of V23 is its exterior design, now in retro style with references to classic SUVs of the late last century. Moreover, the trendy crossover boasts a decent off-road geometry: an approach angle of 43°, a departure angle of 41°, and a ground clearance of 212 mm.

Two modifications are available:

• Rear-wheel drive (136 hp)
• All-wheel drive (211 hp)

Traction battery capacity is 59.9 or 81.8 kWh.

Hybrid V27

The iCar V27 model will be the flagship of the brand and will closely resemble the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender in terms of dimensions and exterior appearance.

Developers claim the novelty will have a sequential hybrid transmission: the movement will be powered solely by electric motors, while the gasoline engine will act as a generator recharging the battery system. Other technical specifications have not yet been disclosed.